'Buckle up': Allergy season hitting early
KSL TV 5 • • health
Key Points:
- Utah is experiencing an early and severe allergy season due to a mild winter and warmer temperatures, with symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and watery eyes appearing as early as February.
- Three Utah cities—Provo, Ogden, and Salt Lake City—are ranked among the top 20 allergy capitals by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
- Over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal steroids are recommended for symptom relief, with nasal steroids requiring consistent use for best results; nasal rinses and minimizing pollen exposure by keeping windows closed are also advised.
- Allergies can trigger asthma flare-ups, so individuals experiencing breathing difficulties should seek medical evaluation promptly.
- Riverton Hospital monitors local pollen levels from a rooftop station, providing daily counts to help residents manage their exposure.
